Observing that 'sensitive minds' sometimes get disturbed by some incidents in the society, he advocated a 'balanced' expression of concern over such events.

"Sensitive minds sometimes get disturbed by some incidents in society. But, expression of concern over such events should be balanced. Emotions should not overrun reason, and disagreement should be expressed through debate and discussion," the President said addressing an event organised by the Press Council of India (PCI) on the occasion of National Press Day here.

"We must, as proud Indians, have confidence in the idea of India and the values and principles enshrined in our Constitution. India has always been able to self-correct whenever such a need has arisen," he added while speaking on the topic 'The impact and import of cartooning and caricatures as a medium of expression of opinion'.

Although the President did not refer to any particular incident, his comments assume significance as these came against the backdrop of certain cases which were seen as reflection of 'intolerance'.

At the fuction, he paid tributes to legendary cartoonists like RK Laxman and Rajinder Puri. He also referred to Jawaharlal Nehru and said he used to repeatedly tell cartoonist V Shankar to not spare him in his work.